Former Local Pastor Pleads Guilty To Sexual Abuse

The former spiritual life coordinator for Burlington United Methodist Family Services pleaded guilty recently in Mineral County Circuit Court to a felony count of sexual abuse of a minor by a parent, guardian or custodian. The Cumberland Times News reports Pastor Richard Hogg was sentenced to a 10-year prison term, but that was suspended for 90 days' house arrest, said Cody Pancake, Mineral County prosecuting attorney. He was given 10 years' post supervision and is required to register as a lifetime sex offender.

The incident occurred in January and involved a juvenile on the campus, Pancake said.

"He was fired and lost his license. The incident was reported to staff at Burlington United Methodist Family Services and they did everything they were supposed to do lawfully and procedurally," said Pancake.

Hogg attend a sex offender treatment program in Arizona, according to Pancake.